2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
10 Glaucoma
Chapter 6: Perimetry
Factors Affecting Perimetry Results
Perimetrist
Although the influence of the perimetrist on the results of automated perimetry is in general smaller than with manual perimetry, the perimetrist still plays an important role in the outcome of the test. It is important to instruct the patient about what to expect during the test, such as how long the test will take, when to blink, what the stimulus will look like, and where it might appear. Also, it is important to advise patients that the stimuli are likely to be barely visible throughout the test, and that more than half of the stimuli shown may not be visible. This knowledge can decrease a patient’s anxiety and improve cooperation during the test. In addition, the perimetrist should explain to the patient how to pause the test if necessary. The patient should be monitored during the test to ensure proper positioning and fixation, and the perimetrist should be available to intervene if necessary to ensure proper testing conditions.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 10 - Glaucoma. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.